Elmiron drug: Uses, indications and precautions when using

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Elmiron (pentosan polysulfate sodium) is used to treat pain/discomfort caused by a bladder disorder (interstitial cystitis). It works by forming a layer on the bladder wall and protecting it from harmful/irritating substances in the urine. Elmiron is also a weak "blood thinner" and may therefore increase the risk of bruising/bleeding (eg nose/gum bleeding).

1. How to use Elmiron

Consult the product's instructions for use before you start taking pentosan polysulfate sodium and each time you add more medication.
Take this medication by mouth, at least 1 hour before meals or 2 hours after meals, usually 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor.
Use Elmiron pills regularly to get the most benefit from it. Take your medicine at the same times each day to avoid forgetting to take it.
Do not increase your dose or take this medicine more than directed by your doctor. This will prevent your condition from improving any faster and the risk of serious side effects may increase.
If after 3 months your condition does not improve or becomes more serious, tell your doctor immediately.

2. Side effects

Elmiron may cause some side effects such as diarrhea, hair loss, nausea, headache, stomach upset or upset stomach. Tell your doctor if these side effects do not go away or get worse.
Contact your doctor right away if any of these undesirable side effects occur, including: Unusual bruising/bleeding (e.g. Blood in stools), mental/mood changes, heartburn, discomfort when swallowing.
If you experience serious side effects such as: Fatigue, fast/pounding heart, signs of infection (e.g. fever, persistent sore throat), difficulty breathing, vision changes, eye pain, dark urine, yellow eyes/skin, persistent nausea/vomiting.
Some rare side effects that may occur during use of Elmiron include:
Infections Bruising under the skin Influenza Blood from the anus Abnormal liver function tests Hair loss Dizziness skin rash Headache Nausea Diarrhea Severe abdominal pain Anemia Decreased blood platelets Low white blood cell count Bleeding from the retina Pigment retinopathy Concentration of the eyes Vision changes Eye pain On observation Large intestine Inflammation Difficulty breathing Jaundice Tinnitus Sore throat Congestion Nasal discharge Bleeding gums Esophagitis Constipation Indigestion Nasal bleeding Vomiting Severe allergic reactions have rarely occurred after taking Elmiron. However, call 911 immediately if you experience serious symptoms such as: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms after taking Elmiron.

3. Precautionary measures

Before taking pentosan polysulfate sodium, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or to heparin or low molecular weight heparin; or any other allergies.
Before using this medication, your doctor should know your medical history, especially of: Bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia, thrombocytopenia), blood vessel disorders (e.g., aneurysms) arteries ), liver disease, spleen disorders, stomach/intestinal disorders (eg, stomach ulcers, polyps, diverticula).
Before surgery, tell your doctor that you are using this medicine.
For women who are pregnant and breastfeeding, take Elmiron only when absolutely necessary.

4. Interaction

Starting, stopping or changing the dose of any medication must be specifically directed by your doctor, do not change it on your own.
This medicine should not be used with mifepristone because very serious interactions can occur.
Before using pentosan polysulfate sodium, tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you are using, especially of: "Blood thinners" (e.g. Warfarin, heparin, tenecteplase, abciximab, clopidogrel, ticlopidine), sulfinpyrazone.
Check all prescription and nonprescription drug labels carefully as many contain pain relievers/fever reducers (NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, ketorolac) that can increase the risk of side effects if taken with this medicine. If prescribed by your doctor for specific medical reasons such as heart attack or stroke prevention, you should continue to take low-dose aspirin (usually at doses of 81-325 milligrams per day).

Call 911 right away if you have taken an overdose and have symptoms such as shortness of breath or fainting. Signs of an overdose of Elmiron you may experience include: Unusual bruising/bleeding, nausea/vomiting.
During prolonged treatment, medical tests (such as eye exams) may be done while you are taking this medicine.
The drug should be stored at room temperature between 15-30 degrees Celsius, protected from light and moisture.

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Reference source: webmd.com